Comedy and Costner

I had wanted to launch my entertainment blog all summer, but something always came up. I waited and waited-watched summer slip by. When would the time be right?  July 19, 2012. Why?  The announcement of the 2012 Emmy nominations.  I woke up at 6:30 this morning-especially impressive because I teach and have the summers off. I made a cup of coffee and prepared to get serious.  Would my favorites be singled out? Would the shows and stars I have come to love (not stalk) make the cut?

I enjoy tracking (not stalking) my Hollywood friends, and certainly one highlight is watching award ceremonies.  On Sept. 23 I will check out (meaning I will go downstairs), ask my husband to make supper, and virtually have no communication with my family for six hours. My 12-year-old daughter likes to watch the red carpet coverage with me and we ooh and aah over dresses.  Once the show starts, she loses interest after best comedy nominations because "Modern Family" is the only show she is really familiar with.  She always wants to know if Selena Gomez or "Toddlers and Tiaras" is nominated.  Novice.

Back to the topic.  I am crossing my fingers and hoping the best for the following shows and actors: "Modern Family," "Mad Men," "Hatfields and McCoys," Kevin Costner, cast of Modern Family, Amy Poehler, Jon Hamm, Julianna Marguiles.  I know there are many more, but I consider the above the most important.

Comedy Series 

I enjoy all the nominations with the exception of the "Big Bang Theory."  I don't get it.  I find it one-dimensional----all story lines deal either with sex or the galaxy. No thanks.  My pick is "Modern Family."  The show continues to grow and is the only show I rewind several times during a viewing to hear dialogue again.  I think the married couples nail their roles, and the pre-teen and teenage characters are right on.  It is clever and honest. No talk about the periodic table or going to the moon.  The show presents scenarios that are familiar, yet thankfully not quite the life you lead.  Christopher Lloyd and Steven Levitan are co-creators and writers for the show.  The wit and pacing of the show is perfect.  The fact that all adult characters are also nominated for individual Emmys (as supporting characters)  is a further testament to this solid, smart comedy.  

I think the lead actress for a comedy will go to Amy Poehler.  Poehler's campaign on "Parks and Recreation" was a pleasure to watch.  Poehler's character wins the election for city council, and the summary remarks she delivered during the final debate were so incredibly earnest, I forgot she was only one of my Hollywood friends.  I want politicians to speak like Poehler. 

I am really feeling disloyal to Julia Louis-Dreyfus at this point.  I have watched HBO's VEEP, and I think it is incredible.  Dreyfus has recreated herself again (after Elaine and Christine) and her portrayal of a vice-president made me smile throughout.  I simply think the show needs more time.  

One last note:  I see that Lena Dunham is also nominated for HBO's "Girls"; I like the show, but I think she shines as writer and co-creator--I don't see her as the top female comedy star.

Mini-Series

For those of you who don't know me, you probably are unaware of my biggest Hollywood crush: Kevin Costner.  I live in South Dakota where "Dances with Wolves" was filmed, so I think that makes us practically married. PLUS I did get to meet him at a film festival.  I actually petted his arm, but it wasn't as weird as you might think.  Or maybe it was.  Costner starred in History Channel's "Hatfields and McCoys" early this summer.  The series was compelling on a number of levels, but I was drawn to Costner.  The series should win, and he should have enough clout to pull an individual win.  

I don't have a cute tagline, so I will just end with thanking you for reading my thoughts.